Whistlers Mountain and Indian Ridge

Whistlers Mountain and Indian Ridge

Distance:8.8km

Elevation:750m

Time:3 - 5 h

Difficulty Rating:

Want a great walk in Jasper? Try this hike from the top of the Jasper SkyTram to Whistlers Mountain and onwards to Indian Ridge. The first section is typically crowded, but for some solitude, continue over the peak, then down and back-up partway of Indian Ridge.

Getting there

From Jasper take Highway 93 (Icefields Parkway) for 1.8km, turning left onto the signed roadway for the Jasper SkyTram, parking at the base of the tram. We recommend taking the tram ride to the trailhead, though you could walk the steep 6.3km trail.

Elevation

Weather

Detailed Description

From the top of the gondola, take the only trail that goes up 1.2km to Whistlers Peak. You may get confused and find yourself at the false peak, but note that the real peak has dozens of Cairns and a large compass at the top. Here is where the official trail ends.

You can see Indian Ridge from the summit of Whistlers, as well as beautiful views down past the town of Jasper to Pyramid Mountain. Cross over the large marsh to the left side of the semicircular ridge. You will not be doing to entire traverse, as it turns into a technical scramble right before Indian Peak.

The path is visible from the summit of Whistlers. Descend to your right to the far shoulder of Whistlers peak then head straight down towards the visible trail ascending the left-hand side of Indian Ridge. Upon arriving at the base of Indian Ridge, the path becomes extremely steep. It progresses up a scree slope – so watch your step!

As you climb the ridge you will pass over four humps, each progressively getting steeper. Upon arriving at the fifth (Indian Summit) you will find the technical difficulty of the scramble increasing. We stopped before the summit, as the route was simply too dangerous due to the loose rock. If you are using your hands you have gone too far, unless you have the experience and equipment to safely complete the fifth hump. But don’t worry, many of the most stunning views are found along the first part of the hike.

As you climb along the ridge you can look around the edge to the orange Terminal Mountain, and left to see the top lift of the Marmot Ski hill peeking out above a pass. Looking the other way into the valley within Indian Ridge grants a stunning view of lush greenery, and a serene dry riverbed.

Take extreme care when descending, as the rock is loose and can be very slippery when wet. Return towards Whistler Peak and continue along the path. There is a cafe at the gondola terminal. Remember your ticket for the way down.